Primer Pocket Problem

I've been reloading for a while but I've run across a problem that I've never had before- I'm reloading some Lapua Brass for a 6.5x55 Swede Mauser custom rifle- I had almost 200 rounds that I was firing long range last week- I decapped, cleaned the primer pockets, tumble cleaned, neck sized and trimmed these cases- just about 50% of the cases would not hold the Federal 210 primers I'm using- no tension on the primer or very little- 50% were just fine- anybody have any ideas of what the heck is going on here? :banghead:

I have never read of primer pocket problems with Lapua brass, whereas with Federal brass in several calibers.

Paul "Fitz" Jones

February 13, 2005, 01:36 AM

Were the long range loads much hotter than standard loads to stress and stretch the primer pockets? How aggressive were you cleaning the pockets and with what tool?

happy old sailor

February 14, 2005, 12:11 PM

Fitz has it. i dont clean primer pockets with a tool anymore. i decap the brass and let the vibrator/tumbler clean them. may take a little longer, but i have to do no work and there is plenty to do while i wait. i get a good job with walnut and brass polish.

Black Snowman

February 14, 2005, 12:21 PM

I'll 2nd over-pressure loads (keep in mind this can be cause by more than just a change in the powder charge) or over-zealous cleaning.

I use tools that only scrape the carbon fouling from the bottom and don't touch the sides the times I do clean pockets. The cheapo Lee tool is good for this :)

The Bushmaster

February 14, 2005, 09:24 PM

I have a neat and cheap trick for cleaning out the primer pockets. I take a old used and broken throttle or choke cable and cut it about one inch from the guide shaft ("T" handle type are the best). This scowers out the pocket and will not damage the pocket sides. It works for me. And I have that "cheap Lee Pocket cleaner" and you can keep it ( want mine? Used only once). It's too damn small to get aholt of...